He said on his website: “I have been a lifelong member of UNISON and am proud and thrilled that they have put their trust in me to be Labour’s candidate for Manchester Gorton, my home constituency.”

“I am honoured to be their choice as Labour’s standard-bearer in this selection contest and will do my utmost to repay their faith and confidence in me.”

“I have been bowled over by the support which is being shown to me by local members of our Party and to have the backing of such a strong trade union as UNISON will spur me on even further.”

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